Patek Philippe World Time

About this reference

The Patek Philippe Reference 2523 was produced between 1953 and the late 1960s, with total production estimated at fewer than 25 units across all metals. This reference is distinguished by its two-crown system—one at 3 o'clock for winding and time-setting, and another at 9 o'clock for rotating the city ring—and its use of the manual-wind Caliber 12-400 HU. Collectors prioritize this model for its 36mm "Heures Universelles" case construction and the variety of dial centers, which include plain gold, guilloché, or cloisonné enamel maps. Due to its extreme rarity and historical significance as a mid-century world timer, the 18k yellow gold variant typically commands prices between $2.5 million and $5 million on the secondary market. A notable 1953 yellow gold example featuring a blue enamel dial center sold at auction in 2023 for approximately $3.4 million, reflecting its status among high-level acquisitions.